The Ideal Matte Box

Moist towelettes.






Looks like 2 filters, swing away, 15mm rod mountable, height adjustable, lightweight, french flag/side doors seems to describe the popular matte boxes. I'm sure the more experienced will know exactly what to say.
 
I would go aluminum since it is easy to handle, durable, forgiving, easy to weld (repair), bend, fold, rivet and what not.

Coat it with super flat black. Some sand (or whatever) in the paint will give it an rough surface that stops glare (like the old ARRI cameras - or WWII GI Helmets)

The inner side shoud be stepped (like some of the Petroffs), adjustable or insert Frames for different aspect ratios to create a glare trap (like a little room with a window in front of the lens.

4 adjustable flaps, 2-3 filter holders that rotate independently, washers for different lens diameters, make sure it is not getting in the way of a follow focus,
solid bracket, swing away would be nice also an ashtray ;-)

Also make sure it´s huge. Men like huge extensions. Seems to be odd, but does not everybody feel better with a big 500mm zoom lens on the still camera as with that little 28mm glas? ;-)

Serios, you wont belive how different actors and customers behave if you got a huge mattebox.

Big list, I know but you asked...
Frank
 
Guys... these are all great.

Keep em comin'!

I like aluminum and I like polycarbonate.

The no glare light absorbing paint or treatment is an absolute must!

All Black, Everything....

What else would you want?
 
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